Artists take the lead on empty shops in Gloucester

Local artists are testing out ideas in partnership with supportive landlords of Gloucester’s vacant properties in a bid to revive the high street.

Whilst initiatives like the recently announced High Street Rental Auctions are formulated, artists from Jolt (the city’s creative incubator run by Gloucester Culture Trust) are coming together to show the power of creativity and small business on the high street.

Working with well-known local landlord Ivan Taylor, the collective of creatives has reanimated 46 Westgate Street.

Over 15 Gloucester-based artists are sharing space to create “Weirdsmith”, a marketplace which features a diverse selection of locally-made artworks, illustration, stationery, ceramics and textiles.

Ivan, who owns 46 Westgate Street, said: “This pop-up is more than just a shop; it’s a space for local creatives to step into entrepreneurship, learn the ins and outs of running a bricks-and-mortar business, and showcase their work to the community.

“It’s just what the city needs: a platform for independent talent to grow, connect, and bring something fresh to Gloucester’s high street.”

The market shop opened its doors on Westgate Street on October 1 and will be open Tuesday to Sunday 10am – 4pm until the new year where you will be able to get your hands on artworks and gifts carefully created here in Gloucestershire.

Emily Gibbon, manager of Gloucester BID, said: “Weirdsmith opening on Westgate Street is a brilliant example of how meanwhile use can bring vibrancy to the high street. We are delighted to see JOLT residents animating the space, showcasing their variety of skills and techniques, and engaging the wider community in new and exciting ways.

“It’s also hugely positive to see new businesses opening in the city, signalling investment, regeneration, and a shared belief in its future. It may be meanwhile, but it shows how it is possible to facilitate short-term use at a high standard”

Back in August, pioneers of light, sound and technology Squidsoup brought back their award-winning installation Submergence to an empty unit on Kings Square. The installation, which has been exhibited over 100 times on six continents, was seen by thousands of families and young people in the heart of the city.

Last year the same installation was exhibited in another empty shop in Eastgate Shopping centre and saw over 10,000 visitors, and more than 79 young disabled participants took part in their activities.

A previous visitor said: “[The installation] makes your mind and soul feel at peace. The colours are pretty and the smiles it creates are amazing to see. Loved this great experience.”

In addition to this, GAS Projects (GASP!) will soon announce ‘Meanwhile in Gloucester’ – a year-long project to empower Gloucester’s artists and communities to animate the city’s empty shops and spaces with a free, co-curated programme of contemporary artworks and exhibitions.

‘Meanwhile in Gloucester’ builds on the success of previous GASP! projects which have transformed these ‘meanwhile spaces’ in the city into cultural and communal experiences for Gloucester’s communities and visitors.

Gloucester Culture Trust, a charity working to bring lasting change to the city through arts and culture, is leading the initiative to breathe life into the city centre. The Trust recently received funding from Gloucester City Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund; part of a national government programme that is designed to improve public spaces, support local businesses, help people develop new skills and raise quality of life in communities across the UK.

The funding is to explore ways for artists and cultural organisations to make use of empty shops and units on a temporary basis in partnership with the local authority, landlords and Gloucester BID.

With the support of landlords, artists are hoping to prove empty shops can become a resource instead of a burden. Gloucester Culture Trust invites other landlords to follow their lead and explore how they can work with artists to reinvigorate Gloucester’s streets for little to no cost.

 James Garrod at Gloucester Culture Trust said: “We see empty shops as a chance to do something positive for Gloucester. By working with landlords and the creative community, we can turn these spaces into places full of energy and ideas. It’s a great way to support local talent and bring more life to our high streets.”